Josh Poysden’s this delivery will remind you of Shane Warne’s ball of the century

By Chaitanya Laxman

Image credits @ ICC

Shane’s Warne’s epic ‘ball of the century’ which he bowled to Mike Gatting in 1993 is one moment in cricket which will be forever inked in history. Many who saw that ball believe it is impossible to create that magic again and it is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime- moment.

However, a little-known cricketer from England Josh Poysden almost recreated this magic and delivered a ball which has a close resemblance to Warne’s ball of the century. And what makes Poysden’s achievement even more exciting is the fact that he bowled this delivery in a T20 game which is considered as a deathbed for bowlers.

Poysden who represents Birmingham Bears was playing against Lancashire Lightning in Vitality Blast, England’s domestic T20 competition when he recreated the magic. In the 10th over of Lancashire’s innings, Poysden bowled a ripper to knock off the off-stump of Steven Croft.

The ball pitched on middle stump and then turned away furiously to hit the top of the off-stump. Croft was completely squared up and was left stranded at the crease with his face reflecting his disbelief.

You can watch the video of Poysden’s magic delivery here.

Poysden’s incredible leg-break has brought back the memories of Warne’s ‘ball of the century’. The spin mastero had bowled this spectacular leg break in a Test match against England in 1993. Interestingly, Mike Gatting’s reaction who was the unfortunate batsman then is similar to that of Croft’s.

Image credit @ ICC

The 27-year-old cricketer has shot to limelight after the video of this delivery became viral on social media. Poysden has featured in 12 first-class matches so far and has 17 wickets to his name. He has also played 24 T20s and has picked up 15 wickets. Courtesy of this wicket, Poysden finished the match with impressive figures of 1/18 and his team won the game in the 15th over itself.